What is Thermal Imaging?

Unlike other cameras, infrared cameras capture the heat that objects generate rather than the objects themselves. This is why these cameras are nothing more than heat sensors. This capability enables them to register different temperature levels and convert them into images. Some infrared cameras use chemical infrared films for producing images. However, a large number of infrared cameras nowadays tend to rely on digital imaging. 

In addition to various security-related aspects, infrared cameras come into use in various other applications as well. For instance, people typically use infrared cameras in:

Handling Emergencies: Infrared cameras enable firefighters to identify areas here fires are raging, even though the areas might not be visible. For example, they use these cameras for spotting fires inside buildings, under floors etc. Similarly, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses camera for detecting spills and leaks. In particular, they use these cameras after chemical spills. Chemicals usually have thermal signatures that are distinctive from their surroundings. As such, these cameras can spot these leaks very easily.

Maintaining Power Lines: Maintenance technicians use these cameras for identifying sections in the power lines that are overheating. Alternatively, these cameras aid technicians to identify faults in electrical systems. Such faults could typically comprise circuit breakers, faulty connections and bad fuses. Electrical systems typically experience wear-and-tear issues in components over time. These worn out components end up offering greater resistance to electric current, which produces heat. This shows up on the infrared camera, enabling workers to carry out the necessary repairs.

Military-based Operations: Infrared cameras are invaluable for people in the military. These chemicals can see through many forms of camouflage. For instance, it is not easy for soldiers to spot snipers hidden under dead leaves and twigs. But, infrared cameras can spot the difference in the levels of heat, thereby highlighting the presence of enemy soldiers.

Energy Audits: Home inspectors use infrared cameras for identifying areas from which a house loses heat. In many cases, houses suffer the loss of heat because of missing insulation, leaky windows and other gaps in the building. Thermal imaging enables these individuals to improve the air-conditioning of their homes. This could result in lower power bills as well.

Pest Control: In some cases, home inspectors use these cameras for detecting the presence of various pests such as termites etc. too.
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Healthcare Services: Many hospitals use infrared cameras for the early detection of breast cancer. These cameras can detect minor changes and the increased flow of blood before a mammogram can detect the tumour. Infrared cameras are very cheap when compared to other breast cancer detection equipment. In addition, they are totally passive and non-invasive as well.